Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method, comprising: maintaining, by a server, an index of a plurality of lab hardware components and a plurality of lab software components available to a lab environment; determining, by the server, a particular computer network outside of the lab environment to recreate; determining, by the server, a plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; determining, by the server, interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; determining, by the server, a plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; determining, by the server, configuration of the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; interconnecting, by the server, a selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment according to the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; installing, by the server, certain of the plurality of lab software components on respective ones of the selected set of lab hardware components within the lab environment corresponding to the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; configuring, by the server, the installed lab software components within the lab environment according to the configuration of the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; operating, by the server, the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment; and providing, by the server, information about the recreated operation of the particular computer network, wherein the operating of the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment comprises: determining, using a machine learning model, a network metric corresponding to a problem occurring in the particular computer network, and controlling, by the server, test equipment or a load generator operatively coupled to the plurality of lab hardware components according to the determined network metric to mimic the problem occurring in the particular computer network within the lab environment.
A system and method for recreating and analyzing a computer network within a controlled lab environment. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately simulating real-world network conditions to identify and troubleshoot issues without disrupting live systems. The method involves maintaining an inventory of available lab hardware and software components, then selecting and configuring them to replicate the structure, connectivity, and software configuration of a target network. The system determines the hardware components, their interconnectivity, and the software installed on each device in the target network. It then deploys equivalent lab hardware and software, configuring them to match the target network's setup. The lab environment operates the software to simulate the target network's behavior, including recreating specific problems using machine learning to identify relevant network metrics. Test equipment or load generators are controlled to mimic real-world issues, allowing for detailed analysis. The system provides insights into the recreated network's operation, supporting troubleshooting and validation of solutions. This approach enables safe, repeatable testing of network configurations and problem scenarios.
2. The method as in claim 1 , further comprising: determining a root cause of a problem in the particular computer network based on the information about the recreated operation of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to computer network troubleshooting, specifically identifying the root cause of problems in a network by recreating and analyzing network operations. The method involves simulating the behavior of a computer network to identify issues and determine their underlying causes. By recreating the operation of the network, the system captures detailed information about network interactions, configurations, and performance metrics. This data is then analyzed to pinpoint the specific factors contributing to the problem, such as misconfigurations, hardware failures, or software conflicts. The approach allows for precise diagnosis by isolating variables and testing different scenarios to determine the root cause. This method improves upon traditional troubleshooting techniques by providing a systematic and automated way to identify and resolve network issues, reducing downtime and improving network reliability. The invention is particularly useful in complex networks where manual diagnosis is time-consuming and error-prone.
3. The method as in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of lab hardware components are pre-connected to a lab switch within the lab environment, and wherein interconnecting the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment comprises: establishing, through the lab switch, a virtualized interconnection between the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components that mimics the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to virtualized lab environments for testing computer networks. The problem addressed is the complexity and inefficiency of physically reconnecting lab hardware components to replicate different network configurations. The solution involves a system that dynamically interconnects lab hardware components to simulate the topology of a target computer network. The lab hardware components are pre-connected to a lab switch within the lab environment. To replicate a specific network configuration, the system establishes a virtualized interconnection between a selected set of these components through the lab switch. This virtualized interconnection mimics the exact interconnectivity of the hardware components in the target network, allowing for accurate testing without physical reconfiguration. The system enables rapid switching between different network topologies by leveraging virtualized connections, reducing setup time and improving testing efficiency. The approach is particularly useful for validating network designs, troubleshooting, and performance testing in controlled lab environments.
4. The method as in claim 1 , wherein interconnecting the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment comprises: interconnecting the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment via a lab patch panel within the lab environment in a configuration that represents the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to a system for simulating and testing computer network configurations using physical lab hardware components. The problem addressed is the need for a flexible, scalable way to replicate real-world network topologies in a controlled lab environment for testing, validation, and troubleshooting without requiring physical rewiring or manual reconfiguration of hardware connections each time a new network setup is needed. The system involves selecting a set of lab hardware components, such as routers, switches, servers, and other networking devices, and interconnecting them in a configuration that mirrors the topology of a target computer network. The key innovation is the use of a lab patch panel to dynamically reconfigure the connections between these components. The patch panel allows for rapid, programmable switching of connections between devices, enabling the lab setup to be quickly adapted to different network configurations without physical rewiring. This approach reduces setup time, minimizes human error, and ensures consistent, repeatable testing conditions. The system may also include software tools to automate the selection of hardware components and the patch panel configuration based on predefined network diagrams or test scenarios. The overall goal is to provide a scalable, efficient way to validate network designs and troubleshoot issues in a controlled lab environment.
5. The method as in claim 4 , wherein interconnecting comprises: providing visual guidance on the lab patch panel for a manual user to connect the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment to the lab patch panel within the lab environment in a configuration that represents the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; and confirming the interconnecting of the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment according to the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to a system for physically interconnecting hardware components in a laboratory environment to replicate the topology of a computer network. The problem addressed is the complexity and potential errors involved in manually setting up physical connections between lab hardware components to accurately mirror a target network configuration. The solution involves providing visual guidance to a user for connecting lab hardware components to a patch panel in a specific arrangement that represents the network's interconnectivity. The system ensures that the physical connections in the lab match the intended network topology by confirming that the selected hardware components are interconnected according to the predefined network configuration. This approach reduces setup errors and streamlines the process of replicating network environments for testing, training, or demonstration purposes. The visual guidance may include labels, color-coding, or other indicators on the patch panel to assist the user in making the correct connections. Once the connections are made, the system verifies that they align with the target network's interconnectivity requirements. This method is particularly useful in scenarios where accurate physical replication of a network is necessary, such as in cybersecurity testing, network validation, or educational settings.
6. The method as in claim 4 , wherein interconnecting comprises: robotically interconnecting the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment via the lab patch panel within the lab environment in a configuration that represents the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to automated lab environments for testing and simulating computer networks. The problem addressed is the manual and time-consuming process of physically interconnecting lab hardware components to replicate real-world network configurations. The solution involves a robotic system that automatically interconnects lab hardware components via a lab patch panel to mirror the interconnectivity of a target computer network. The method includes selecting a set of lab hardware components from a plurality of available components, where each component corresponds to a hardware element in the target network. The robotic system then interconnects these components through the lab patch panel, establishing connections that replicate the network's topology. This automation reduces setup time and human error, enabling rapid reconfiguration of lab environments for testing different network scenarios. The lab patch panel serves as a central hub for managing connections between components, allowing the robotic system to dynamically reconfigure the lab setup. The method ensures that the physical lab environment accurately represents the logical and physical interconnectivity of the target network, facilitating realistic testing and validation. This approach is particularly useful in network research, development, and certification environments where rapid and accurate lab configurations are essential.
7. The method as in claim 1 , wherein interconnecting the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment comprises: robotically retrieving a plurality of lab cartridges from storage for the lab environment, the plurality of lab cartridges collectively housing the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components; robotically inserting the plurality of lab cartridges into one or more racks within the lab environment; and robotically interconnecting the plurality of lab cartridges via a lab patch panel within the lab environment in a configuration that interconnects the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment according to the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to automated laboratory environments designed to replicate and test computer network configurations. The problem addressed is the manual and time-consuming process of setting up lab hardware components to match specific network architectures, which is error-prone and inefficient. The solution involves a method for dynamically configuring lab environments by robotically assembling and interconnecting lab hardware components based on a target network's structure. The method includes robotically retrieving lab cartridges from storage, where each cartridge houses a set of lab hardware components. These cartridges are then inserted into racks within the lab environment. The system then robotically interconnects the cartridges via a lab patch panel, ensuring the hardware components are connected in a configuration that mirrors the interconnectivity of the target computer network. This automation reduces setup time, minimizes human error, and allows for rapid reconfiguration of the lab environment to test different network configurations. The system ensures precise and repeatable hardware setups, improving the accuracy and efficiency of network testing and validation.
8. The method as in claim 7 , further comprising: robotically returning the plurality of lab cartridges to storage upon completion of operating.
Storage and retrieval of laboratory consumables. This technology addresses the challenge of managing and re-storing used lab cartridges after an automated experiment or process is finished. The invention provides a system and method for automatically returning multiple lab cartridges to their designated storage locations following their operational use. This automated return process ensures efficient workflow, minimizes manual handling, and maintains an organized laboratory environment.
9. The method as in claim 7 , further comprising: selecting the plurality of lab cartridges to robotically insert based on one or both of pre-installed or pre-configured lab software components corresponding to the plurality of software components of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to automated laboratory systems, specifically methods for robotically inserting lab cartridges into a laboratory device based on software components in a computer network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and automated selection and insertion of lab cartridges that match the software components of a particular computer network, ensuring compatibility and reducing manual intervention. The method involves a laboratory device with a robotic system capable of inserting multiple lab cartridges. The lab cartridges contain software components that interact with a computer network. The method includes determining the software components of the computer network and selecting lab cartridges that have corresponding pre-installed or pre-configured lab software components. This ensures the lab cartridges are compatible with the network's software environment. The robotic system then inserts the selected cartridges into the laboratory device, automating the process and minimizing errors. The method may also involve analyzing the computer network to identify required software components and matching them with available lab cartridges. The robotic system can be programmed to prioritize cartridges based on compatibility, availability, or other criteria. The invention improves efficiency in laboratory operations by automating cartridge selection and insertion, reducing downtime, and ensuring software compatibility.
10. The method as in claim 7 , wherein robotically inserting the plurality of lab cartridges into one or more racks within the lab environment comprises: blind mating one or more of a power element, a cooling element, a management element, and a network interconnect element of the plurality of lab cartridges with a corresponding element on the one or more racks.
This invention relates to automated lab environments, specifically methods for robotically inserting lab cartridges into racks within such environments. The problem addressed is the efficient and reliable connection of multiple functional elements (power, cooling, management, and network interconnect) between lab cartridges and their corresponding racks without requiring precise manual alignment. The method involves robotically inserting lab cartridges into racks, where each cartridge contains one or more of the following elements: a power element, a cooling element, a management element, and a network interconnect element. During insertion, these elements are blindly mated with corresponding elements on the racks. Blind mating ensures that the connections are made automatically without the need for visual alignment or manual intervention, improving efficiency and reducing errors. The process is designed to work within a lab environment where multiple cartridges may be inserted into one or more racks, allowing for scalable and modular system configurations. The method ensures that all necessary functional connections are established simultaneously, enabling seamless integration of the cartridges into the lab environment. This approach is particularly useful in automated lab settings where rapid deployment and reliable connectivity are critical.
11. The method as in claim 7 , wherein one or more of the plurality of lab cartridges are closed cartridges encapsulating hardware components therein.
This invention relates to a system for processing biological samples using lab cartridges, addressing challenges in automation, contamination control, and modularity in laboratory workflows. The method involves using a plurality of lab cartridges, each containing hardware components for performing specific analytical tasks. These cartridges may be closed, fully encapsulating their internal hardware to prevent contamination and ensure sterility. The closed design isolates sensitive components from external environments, reducing the risk of cross-contamination between samples. The cartridges are configured to interface with a lab automation system, allowing seamless integration into workflows. The system enables modular operation, where different cartridges can be swapped or added based on analytical needs. This approach enhances flexibility, scalability, and reliability in laboratory processes, particularly in high-throughput or automated testing environments. The closed cartridge design ensures consistent performance and minimizes maintenance by protecting internal components from external factors. The method supports various analytical functions, including sample preparation, detection, and data processing, within a controlled and automated framework.
12. The method as in claim 7 , wherein the lab environment is associated with a first entity, and wherein one or more of the plurality of lab cartridges are closed cartridges encapsulating hardware components associated with a second entity therein.
This invention relates to a method for managing lab environments and lab cartridges, addressing challenges in secure and isolated testing of hardware components from different entities. The method involves a lab environment associated with a first entity, such as a testing facility or research organization, and multiple lab cartridges that are closed, encapsulating hardware components from a second entity, such as a manufacturer or developer. The closed cartridges ensure that the hardware components remain isolated and secure during testing, preventing unauthorized access or tampering. The method further includes steps for initializing the lab environment, loading the closed cartridges into the environment, and executing tests on the encapsulated hardware components. The closed cartridges may include sensors, processors, or other hardware elements that are tested in a controlled manner, with results collected and analyzed to verify performance, compatibility, or security. The isolation provided by the closed cartridges ensures that the first entity can test hardware from the second entity without compromising the integrity of either party's systems. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where secure, independent validation of hardware components is required, such as in cybersecurity, medical device testing, or industrial equipment validation. The method may also include steps for monitoring the testing process, logging results, and generating reports to document the outcomes of the tests.
13. The method as in claim 7 , further comprising: determining, by the server, an optimal storage arrangement of the lab cartridge storage for the lab environment based on efficiency of configuring the lab environment to recreate operation of computer networks.
This invention relates to optimizing the storage arrangement of lab cartridges in a laboratory environment to improve the efficiency of configuring the lab to recreate computer network operations. The method involves analyzing the lab environment and determining the most efficient way to organize lab cartridges to facilitate the recreation of computer network operations. The lab cartridges are used to simulate network devices or components, and their arrangement affects how quickly and accurately the lab can be set up for testing. The method includes evaluating factors such as accessibility, connectivity, and compatibility of the cartridges to determine the optimal storage arrangement. By optimizing the storage arrangement, the lab can be reconfigured more efficiently, reducing setup time and improving the accuracy of network simulations. This is particularly useful in environments where rapid reconfiguration of lab setups is required, such as in network testing, development, and troubleshooting. The method ensures that the lab environment can quickly adapt to different network configurations, enhancing productivity and reducing operational delays.
14. The method as in claim 7 , wherein at least a portion of the plurality of lab cartridges are pre-inserted into one or more particular racks, and wherein robotically retrieving the plurality of lab cartridges from storage comprises robotically retrieving the particular racks with pre-inserted lab cartridges, and wherein robotically inserting the plurality of lab cartridges comprises robotically inserting the particular racks into the lab environment.
This invention relates to automated laboratory systems for handling lab cartridges, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and transporting multiple cartridges in a controlled lab environment. The system includes a robotic mechanism designed to retrieve and insert lab cartridges from and into storage racks. A key feature is the use of pre-inserted cartridges in specific racks, which are then robotically moved as a unit. The robotic system retrieves these pre-loaded racks from storage and transfers them into the lab environment, ensuring organized and streamlined cartridge handling. This approach reduces manual intervention, minimizes errors, and improves workflow efficiency by treating the racks as modular units. The system may also include additional robotic functions such as individual cartridge retrieval, insertion, and positioning within the lab environment, depending on the specific configuration. The invention is particularly useful in high-throughput laboratory settings where precise and automated cartridge management is critical.
15. The method as in claim 7 , further comprising: robotically inserting one or more hardware sub-components into one or more of the plurality of lab cartridges.
This invention relates to automated laboratory systems for handling and processing lab cartridges, addressing the need for precise, efficient, and contamination-free manipulation of lab cartridges and their sub-components. The system includes a robotic mechanism capable of inserting hardware sub-components into multiple lab cartridges. The lab cartridges are designed to hold biological or chemical samples and may include features such as wells, chambers, or ports for processing. The robotic mechanism ensures accurate placement of sub-components, such as sensors, filters, or mixing elements, into the cartridges without human intervention. This automation reduces errors, improves reproducibility, and enhances throughput in laboratory workflows. The system may also include mechanisms for aligning, securing, and verifying the placement of sub-components within the cartridges. The invention is particularly useful in high-throughput screening, diagnostic testing, and automated biochemical assays where precision and speed are critical. By integrating robotic insertion, the system minimizes contamination risks and ensures consistent performance across multiple cartridges. The overall approach streamlines laboratory operations by automating repetitive and delicate tasks, allowing researchers to focus on analysis and interpretation of results.
16. The method as in claim 1 , further comprising: robotically pressing one or more buttons on the lab hardware within the lab environment while operating the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment.
This invention relates to automated testing of computer networks in a laboratory environment. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently and accurately recreate network operations for testing purposes, particularly in scenarios where manual interaction with lab hardware is required. The solution involves a method for robotically pressing buttons on lab hardware while simultaneously operating installed lab software components on interconnected lab hardware within the lab environment. This automated approach ensures consistent and repeatable testing of network operations, reducing human error and increasing efficiency. The method leverages robotic systems to interact with physical hardware, such as pressing buttons on devices, while software components execute network operations. This combination allows for precise recreation of network conditions, enabling thorough testing of network behavior under controlled lab conditions. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where manual button presses are necessary to trigger specific network functions or configurations, ensuring that all aspects of network operation can be systematically tested. By automating these interactions, the method improves the reliability and reproducibility of network testing procedures.
17. The method as in claim 1 , further comprising: adjusting one or more parameters of the lab environment selected from a group consisting of: interconnected lab hardware components; interconnection of the interconnected lab hardware components; installed lab software components; configuration of the installed lab software components; network traffic within the lab environment; software protocol messages; and command line interface (CLI) commands; determining an effect of the adjusted one or more parameters on operation of the lab environment; and providing information about the effect of the adjusted one or more parameters on operation of the lab environment.
This invention relates to a method for dynamically adjusting and analyzing parameters within a laboratory environment to evaluate their impact on system operation. The method involves modifying various aspects of the lab setup, including hardware components, their interconnections, installed software, software configurations, network traffic, protocol messages, and command-line interface (CLI) commands. After adjusting these parameters, the method assesses how these changes affect the lab environment's functionality. The results of this analysis are then provided to users or systems for further review. This approach enables thorough testing and validation of different configurations, helping to identify optimal settings for performance, security, or other operational metrics. The method supports iterative experimentation by allowing repeated adjustments and evaluations, ensuring comprehensive assessment of the lab environment's behavior under various conditions. This is particularly useful in research, development, and testing scenarios where understanding system responses to different configurations is critical.
18. A tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing program instructions that cause a computer to execute a process comprising: maintaining an index of a plurality of lab hardware components and a plurality of lab software components available to a lab environment; determining a particular computer network outside of the lab environment to recreate; determining a plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; determining interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; determining a plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; determining configuration of the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; interconnecting a selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment according to the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; installing certain of the plurality of lab software components on respective ones of the selected set of lab hardware components within the lab environment corresponding to the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; configuring the installed lab software components within the lab environment according to the configuration of the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; operating the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment; and providing information about the recreated operation of the particular computer network, wherein the operating of the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment comprises: determining, using a machine learning model, a network metric corresponding to a problem occurring in the particular computer network, and controlling test equipment or a load generator operatively coupled to the plurality of lab hardware components according to the determined network metric to mimic the problem occurring in the particular computer network within the lab environment.
This invention relates to a system for recreating and analyzing computer networks in a controlled lab environment. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately replicating real-world network configurations and behaviors for testing, debugging, or research purposes. The system maintains an inventory of available lab hardware and software components, then identifies a target computer network to be recreated, including its hardware components, their interconnectivity, and the software installed on each device. The system then selects and configures lab hardware and software to match the target network's structure and settings. Once deployed, the lab environment operates to replicate the target network's behavior, including simulating network problems using machine learning to identify relevant metrics and control test equipment or load generators to mimic real-world issues. The system provides insights into the recreated network's operation, enabling detailed analysis of network performance, failures, or security vulnerabilities in a controlled setting. This approach allows for safe experimentation without affecting live systems.
19. The computer-readable medium as in claim 18 , wherein the process further comprises: determining a root cause of a problem in the particular computer network based on the information about the recreated operation of the particular computer network.
This invention relates to computer network troubleshooting and root cause analysis. The technology addresses the challenge of identifying and diagnosing issues in complex computer networks by recreating network operations to analyze their behavior and pinpoint the underlying causes of problems. The system involves simulating or replaying network operations to gather detailed information about how the network functions under specific conditions. By analyzing this recreated operation, the system determines the root cause of a problem, such as performance degradation, connectivity failures, or security breaches. The approach leverages historical data, network logs, or real-time monitoring to reconstruct the operational state of the network, allowing for precise identification of faults or inefficiencies. This method improves diagnostic accuracy and reduces the time required to resolve network issues by providing actionable insights into the factors contributing to the problem. The solution is particularly useful in large-scale or highly dynamic networks where traditional troubleshooting methods may be ineffective or time-consuming.
20. The computer-readable medium as in claim 18 , wherein the process, when executed to interconnect the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment comprises: robotically retrieving a plurality of lab cartridges from storage for the lab environment, the plurality of lab cartridges collectively housing the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components; robotically inserting the plurality of lab cartridges into one or more racks within the lab environment; and robotically interconnecting the plurality of lab cartridges via a lab patch panel within the lab environment in a configuration that interconnects the selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment according to the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network.
Automated laboratory systems often require dynamic reconfiguration of hardware components to match specific network topologies for testing or experimentation. Manually setting up and interconnecting lab hardware is time-consuming and prone to errors, particularly in environments requiring frequent reconfiguration. This invention addresses these challenges by providing a method for robotically assembling and interconnecting lab hardware components based on predefined network configurations. The system includes a computer-readable medium storing instructions for executing a process that selects a set of lab hardware components corresponding to a target computer network topology. The process then robotically retrieves multiple lab cartridges from storage, where each cartridge houses one or more of the selected hardware components. These cartridges are then robotically inserted into racks within the lab environment. Finally, the system robotically interconnects the cartridges via a lab patch panel, establishing the necessary connections between the hardware components to replicate the target network configuration. This automation reduces setup time, minimizes human intervention, and ensures accurate and repeatable lab configurations. The system is particularly useful in testing environments where rapid reconfiguration of network hardware is required.
21. A system, comprising: a plurality of lab hardware components available to a lab environment; a plurality of lab software components available to the lab environment; a server configured to determine: a particular computer network outside of the lab environment to recreate; a plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; a plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; and a configuration of the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; and a robotic system configured to interconnect, based on instruction by the server, a selected set of the plurality of lab hardware components within the lab environment according to the interconnectivity of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; wherein the server is further configured to: install certain of the plurality of lab software components on respective ones of the selected set of lab hardware components within the lab environment corresponding to the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; configure the installed lab software components within the lab environment according to the configuration of the plurality of software components installed on respective ones of the plurality of hardware components of the particular computer network; operate the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment; and provide information about the recreated operation of the particular computer network, and wherein, when the server operates the installed lab software components on the interconnected lab hardware components within the lab environment to recreate operation of the particular computer network within the lab environment, the server is further configured to: determine, using a machine learning model, a network metric corresponding to a problem occurring in the particular computer network; and control test equipment or a load generator operatively coupled to the plurality of lab hardware components according to the determined network metric to mimic the problem occurring in the particular computer network within the lab environment.
The system automates the recreation of a computer network within a lab environment for testing and analysis. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately replicating real-world network configurations and behaviors in a controlled lab setting, which is critical for troubleshooting, validation, and optimization of network performance. The system includes lab hardware and software components, a server, and a robotic system. The server identifies a target computer network to recreate, including its hardware components, their interconnectivity, and the software components installed on each hardware device along with their configurations. The robotic system physically interconnects a subset of lab hardware components according to the target network's topology. The server then installs and configures the corresponding lab software components to match the target network's software setup. Once the lab environment mirrors the target network, the server operates the software to simulate the network's behavior. The system further employs a machine learning model to detect network metrics indicative of problems in the target network and uses test equipment or load generators to replicate those issues in the lab, enabling detailed analysis and testing. This approach ensures accurate replication of real-world network conditions for comprehensive testing and troubleshooting.
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May 19, 2020
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